Dictionary Home » Dictionary Definitions » alder

alder

The definition of an alder is a small fast growing tree or shrub that grows in cool soil and cold climates.

(noun)

An example of an alder is a plant in the birch family.

See alder in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

any of a small group of rapidly growing trees and shrubs (genus Alnus) of the birch family, having toothed leaves and catkins, and growing in cool, moist soil in temperate and cold climates: the bark is used in dyeing and tanning, the wood is used for bridges and piles because it resists underwater rot, and the roots, which contain nitrogen-fixing organisms, help colonize raw soil

Origin: ME alder, aller < OE alor, aler < IE base *el-: see elm

See alder in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

Any of various deciduous shrubs or trees of the genus Alnus, native chiefly to northern temperate regions and having alternate simple toothed leaves and tiny fruits in woody, conelike catkins.
The wood of these plants, used in carvings and for making furniture and cabinets.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old English alor

(click for a larger image)